The Strategic Planning & Operations team specializes in communications, design, and operations within University Life at Penn. Through our work, we create a meaningful and value-driven environment for University Life staff, who are integral contributors to student success at Penn.
We are collaborators, creatives, and communicators. Get to know us.
Saleem is responsible for the overall management and operational needs related to collaborative University Life spaces, with a specific focus on Houston Hall – the oldest operating student union in the country. He oversees a dynamic team who create meaningful experiences for the campus community through the implementation of services and programs.
Laurie drives divisional strategy and organizational effectiveness through collaborative planning and partnership. She oversees large-scale divisional projects, communications, onboarding initiatives, funding priorities, gift management, and alumni engagement. Laurie actively collaborates on marketing strategies aimed at promoting and amplifying the diverse array of events, resources, and training programs crafted by departments and campus partners for the benefit of students.
Robert Butler serves as the division’s Director of Technology Services, where he is responsible for managing a team supporting all aspects of technical services and information system processes. Butler has been with the University of Pennsylvania for over 19 years, with experience in related roles for the Division of Finance before coming to University Life in 2014.
Marjan leads the divisional creative strategy by maintaining brand standards and visual identities of all University Life departments. She oversees large-scale visual design projects, ensuring a cohesive and compelling brand presence while providing design training and education to University Life staff. Marjan manages web accessibility, design principles, and print design through initiatives like the Design Ambassadors Certification Program and Design Roundtables.
Sarah adeptly manages the daily operational needs of the design team, ensuring seamless workflow and efficiency. She plays a pivotal role as a co-leader in design working sessions, contributing to the collaborative and creative process. Sarah takes the initiative to create templates for content creator usage, streamlining design processes. Additionally, she efficiently manages and organizes departmental requests through the design request form, facilitating clear communication and prioritization.
Reporting to Technology Services, Alan assumes responsibility for managing all backend website needs, including plugins, stylesheets, CMS, and hosting, ensuring the seamless functionality of the online platform. He actively oversees the maintenance of the divisional calendar, contributing to the organization and accessibility of key events and dates. Alan also serves as a co-leader in design working sessions, collaborating with the team to drive creative and technical excellence in web development projects.
Isha plays a crucial role in supporting communication efforts. She is responsible for updating and maintaining the division’s website, ensuring current and visually appealing content. She manages printing tasks, creating brochures and promotional materials to contribute to the overall communication strategy.
Antoine is instrumental in maintaining welcoming environment for the University Life office at 3609-11 Locust Walk. He oversees the seamless organization of front-of-house needs, all administrative functions, and is responsible for facilitating onboarding initiatives.
Alexa plays a vital role in maintaining efficient operations. She is responsible for coordinating administrative tasks and ensuring seamless day-to-day functions. Alexa assists in scheduling and organizing meetings, handling correspondence, and managing office supplies. Her role also involves supporting departmental initiatives, facilitating communication between team members, and contributing to the overall organizational efficiency. She directly supports Laurie Hall and Will Atkins, Associate Vice Provosts in University Life.
Design
Ambassadors
The Design Ambassadors (DesignAMBS) are volunteer University Life staff members interested in expanding their design and communication skillsets. They serve as additional point-people for other staff within the division and can assist with basic design requests, provide feedback, and ensure accessibility.
If interested in participating, please contact Marjan Gartland or Laurie McCaffrey.
DesignAMBS 2023 – 2024
